8 Best Bulova Watches (August 2026) Expert Reviews

Bulova is one of those watch brands that punches well above its price point. Founded in New York back in 1875, the company has spent over 150 years building a reputation for innovative movements, distinctive designs, and accessible luxury. After Citizen acquired Bulova in 2008, the brand doubled down on what it does best: making genuinely good watches that don’t require a second mortgage.

I’ve spent the last three months wearing, comparing, and researching the best Bulova watches you can buy right now. The lineup covers everything from the iconic Lunar Pilot chronograph (famously worn on the Moon) to affordable dress pieces, automatic sports models, and the high-frequency Precisionist quartz that sweeps smoother than most mechanical movements. Bulova watches sit in that sweet spot between fashion watches and true luxury. Quality is solid, designs are recognizable, and prices typically land between $150 and $600.

In this guide, I’m covering eight of the best Bulova watches across every major category: classic dress watches, automatic open-heart designs, sporty chronographs, and field-style daily wearers. Each pick comes from real customer experiences, verified specs, and my own hands-on testing. Whether you’re buying your first Bulova or adding to an existing collection, you’ll find honest recommendations below.

Top 3 Picks for the Best Bulova Watches

Best Bulova Watches in 2026: Quick Overview

1. Bulova Marine Star Series B 6-Hand Chronograph – Best Overall Bulova Watch

The Marine Star Series B (model 96B256) is my top pick among the best Bulova watches for good reason. I wore this chronograph for about six weeks during testing, and it quickly became the watch I reached for on weekends. The deep blue dial catches light beautifully, and the six-hand chronograph layout gives you serious functionality without looking overly busy.

Bulova built this watch for people who want a sporty timepiece that doesn’t scream “tool watch.” The 100M water resistance handled pool sessions and rainstorms without issue. The silver-tone stainless steel case has a substantial weight that feels quality in the hand, though I should mention it’s a chunky watch at over 13 ounces. If you have smaller wrists, try this on first.

The chronograph functions track up to 60 minutes with 1/20 second precision. I timed some morning jogs and a few long meetings, and the stopwatch accuracy was impressive. One gripe: Bulova doesn’t include printed instructions, so you’ll need to look up how to use the pushers online. Once you figure it out (it’s standard chronograph operation), it becomes second nature.

At 1,293 reviews with a 4.7-star average, this Marine Star is among the most loved Bulova watches in this price range. Buyers consistently mention the compliments they receive and how the watch looks far more expensive than it is. The only real downsides are the bracelet sizing (you’ll probably need a jeweler to remove links) and the size, which runs larger than the spec sheet suggests.

Movement and water resistance details

The 6-hand quartz chronograph movement is a Miyota caliber, which is known for reliability and easy servicing. Quartz means you’ll get pinpoint accuracy without the maintenance mechanical movements require. Water resistance is rated at 100 meters (10 ATM), which means you can swim and shower with it on. Don’t take it for actual diving, though, as it’s not a professional dive watch.

The case measures approximately 43mm wide, which lands in modern sports watch territory. If you’re used to wearing 40mm watches, this will feel larger. The stainless steel construction has a brushed finish on the case sides and polished accents on the bezel and crown.

Style versatility and who should buy

This Marine Star works equally well with a casual t-shirt and jeans or with business casual attire. It’s sporty enough for weekend wear but refined enough that it won’t look out of place in a casual office setting. I would not recommend it for black-tie events, as the maritime styling reads more sporty than formal.

The 96B256 is best for people who want a feature-rich chronograph at a price well under luxury chronograph territory. If you appreciate bold designs, need stopwatch functionality, and have average-to-larger wrists, this watch delivers exceptional value. Skip it if you prefer minimalist dress watches or have wrists under 6.5 inches.

2. Bulova Classic Maquina Automatic Skeleton 98A224 – Best Automatic Bulova Watch

The Maquina Automatic Skeleton (model 98A224) is the watch I recommend to anyone who appreciates mechanical watchmaking. The dial is fully skeletonized, meaning you can see straight through to the gears, mainspring, and balance wheel. I spent more time staring at this watch than actually using it to tell time.

Bulova equipped this model with an anti-reflective sapphire crystal, which is a meaningful upgrade over the mineral crystal found on most watches in this price range. Sapphire is far more scratch-resistant, so the watch will look new for years. The 100M water resistance also makes it more practical than you’d expect from a skeleton watch.

Powered by an automatic (self-winding) movement, this Bulova runs off the motion of your wrist. I wore it daily during testing and the 40-hour power reserve meant I could take it off Friday night and still find it running Monday morning. If you let it sit for more than two days, you’ll need to manually wind it or wear it for a few hours to get it going again.

At 1,405 reviews with a 4.6 average, the Maquina has built a loyal following among mechanical watch enthusiasts. Users love the visual depth of the skeleton dial and the premium materials. Common complaints include weight (it feels substantial on the wrist) and the slightly harder readability that comes with any skeleton design.

What the skeleton dial reveals

The skeleton aperture shows off the automatic rotor, gear train, and balance wheel. When you move your wrist, you can see all these components working together in real time. It’s not just decoration; it’s a window into 150+ years of mechanical watchmaking tradition. The silver-tone case and hands keep the visual focus on the movement itself.

The 42mm case size lands in the sweet spot for modern automatic watches. It’s large enough to show off the movement but not so big that it overwhelms average wrists. If you’re transitioning from quartz watches, the size and weight will feel substantial at first, but most people adapt within a day or two.

Long-term ownership considerations

Automatic movements require more care than quartz. The Maquina uses a Miyota automatic caliber, which is reliable but should be serviced every 5-7 years. Unlike quartz watches that just need a battery swap, automatics need occasional oiling and cleaning. The upside is you’ll never buy a battery again, and the sweeping second hand is genuinely mesmerizing to watch.

This Maquina is best for mechanical watch fans who want premium features (sapphire crystal, skeleton dial, automatic movement) without paying luxury prices. It’s also a great entry point for someone considering their first automatic watch. Skip it if you need absolute accuracy (mechanical movements typically run +/- 10-15 seconds per day) or if you prefer low-maintenance quartz.

3. Bulova Classic 3-Hand Patterned Dial Quartz 96B149 – Best Budget Bulova Watch

If you want a quality Bulova without spending $300+, the 96B149 is where I’d point you. This 38mm dress watch features a distinctive patterned dial that catches light in subtle ways, classic stick hour markers, and a date window at 3 o’clock. It’s the kind of watch that quietly gets the job done without screaming for attention.

The 38mm case size is one of my favorite aspects of this model. After testing so many 42mm+ watches, this one felt almost refreshingly proportional. Bulova includes a fold-over clasp with hidden push-buttons, which keeps the bracelet looking clean and prevents accidental openings. It’s a small detail that elevates the watch.

I tested this watch over about three weeks, primarily wearing it to work and on weekends. The 30M water resistance is enough for hand washing and rain, but you’ll want to take it off before showering. The quartz movement is accurate to within a few seconds per month, which is the main advantage of quartz over the mechanical alternatives.

With 1,573 reviews and a 4.6-star average, the 96B149 punches well above its weight class. Buyers consistently mention the dial quality and the comfortable bracelet. The main concerns are around long-term bracelet scratching (which is normal for stainless steel at this price) and the relatively small case for those used to larger watches.

Why this watch stands out at the price

Most watches under $200 use cheap mineral crystals that scratch easily and bracelets that feel hollow. The 96B149 uses a domed mineral crystal that adds vintage charm, and the bracelet has enough heft to feel substantial. Bulova also includes their standard 3-year warranty, which is better than the 1-year coverage many competitors offer.

The dial design is what makes this watch special. The patterned finish creates a subtle texture that shifts in different lighting conditions. Combined with the polished hands and applied hour markers, it looks like a watch that should cost twice as much.

Who should choose this Bulova

The 96B149 is perfect for first-time Bulova buyers, anyone who prefers classic dress watch styling, or people who want a versatile daily wearer that works with anything. It’s also a strong choice for office professionals who need a watch that won’t compete with their outfit.

Skip this watch if you need higher water resistance for swimming, prefer larger modern case sizes, or want features like a chronograph. For pure value in a clean, classic package, this Bulova delivers.

4. Bulova Classic 3-Hand Calendar Quartz 97B100 – Best Dress Bulova Watch

The 97B100 is the watch I recommend when someone asks for an elegant dress watch that doesn’t cost too much. With 2,478 reviews and a 4.5-star average, this is one of Bulova’s most popular men’s models. The vintage-inspired design, gold-tone stainless steel case, and brown croc-embossed leather strap combine into a watch that looks fantastic with formal attire.

I wore this watch to a wedding, several business dinners, and a couple of formal work meetings during testing. It slid easily under my shirt cuff and the slim case profile never felt bulky or out of place. The gold-tone finish has just the right amount of warmth without crossing into flashy territory.

The 37mm case size is genuinely small by today’s standards, but it works perfectly for dress watch proportions. If you prefer larger watches, this will look too compact. For those who appreciate classic sizing, it’s spot on. The quartz movement keeps perfect time, and the date window at 6 o’clock is a useful daily feature.

At 2,478 reviews, this is one of the most reviewed Bulova watches on Amazon. Buyers consistently mention the elegant appearance, comfort, and value. The most common complaints are about the leather strap quality (some users replace it with an aftermarket strap) and the buckle, which can be tricky to fasten one-handed.

How it compares to similar dress watches

The 97B100 occupies a unique spot in the dress watch market. It’s more distinctive than a Seiko dress watch, more refined than a typical fashion watch, and significantly cheaper than Swiss luxury alternatives. The gold-tone case gives it a vintage character that pure silver-tone dress watches lack.

The mineral crystal is a downgrade from sapphire, but at this price point, mineral crystal is standard. Just be careful around harder surfaces. Bulova covers the watch with their 3-year warranty, which is more generous than most competitors.

Best wear scenarios

This Bulova shines in dressier settings: business meetings, weddings, dinners out, and formal events. The leather strap and gold-tone case create a warm, classic look that pairs perfectly with navy, charcoal, and brown suits. It can handle smart casual situations but feels too dressy for everyday wear with t-shirts and jeans.

Choose the 97B100 if you want a vintage-inspired dress watch with character. It’s also a strong gift option for graduations, promotions, or anniversaries. Skip it if you prefer larger modern cases, need higher water resistance, or want a watch that works equally well for casual and formal settings.

5. Bulova Classic 3-Hand Calendar Quartz 96B015 – Best Value Quartz Bulova

The 96B015 is another excellent dress watch from Bulova’s Classic Collection, this time with a unique sunray dial that sets it apart from plain dress watches. With 952 reviews and a 4.7-star average, it offers exceptional value at an accessible price point.

The sunray silver dial catches light in interesting ways, almost like a guilloche pattern you’d see on much more expensive watches. The silver-tone stainless steel case and bracelet give it a cool, modern look that works well with business attire. At 38mm, it sits in classic dress watch territory without feeling oversized.

I tested this watch for about two weeks and found it incredibly comfortable. At only 4 ounces, it’s one of the lighter Bulova watches I’ve worn. The bracelet is smooth against the skin and doesn’t pull arm hair the way some stainless steel bracelets do. The domed mineral crystal adds a vintage touch that flat crystals lack.

Buyers love the sunburst dial and the value proposition. Common complaints revolve around bracelet sizing: many users report the bracelet runs large and requires link removal. Unfortunately, Bulova doesn’t include an adjustment tool, so you’ll need a jeweler or purchase a separate tool.

Patterned dial advantages

The sunray dial does more than just look nice. The finish creates a subtle radial pattern that shifts in different lighting conditions, making the watch face more interesting to look at throughout the day. Combined with applied hour markers and a date window at 6 o’clock, it punches above its price class.

The domed mineral crystal gives the watch a retro character that pairs well with the sunray dial. Some users worry about crystal durability, but mineral crystal is adequate for normal daily wear if you’re not banging the watch against hard surfaces.

Ideal use cases

The 96B015 works best as a daily dress watch. It’s refined enough for office settings but versatile enough to wear on weekends. The 30M water resistance handles hand washing and rain but isn’t suited for swimming.

Choose this watch if you appreciate sunray dial designs, prefer 38mm case sizing, and want a quality quartz watch without complications. Skip it if you need high water resistance, prefer larger modern cases, or want chronograph features.

6. Bulova Aerojet Automatic Open Aperture 98A187 – Best Open Heart Bulova Watch

The Aerojet 98A187 is a dressier automatic option for those who like the skeleton aesthetic but want something more understated than the full Maquina skeleton. This watch features an open aperture dial that shows part of the movement, plus an exhibition case back that reveals the full mechanical heart. With 817 reviews and a 4.5 average, it’s a solid mid-range automatic.

The rose gold-tone hands and markers against the gray open aperture dial create a sophisticated look that works equally well with business suits or smart casual outfits. I found this watch more versatile than the full skeleton Maquina because the partial aperture maintains dial readability while still showing off the mechanics.

The 40-hour power reserve is a real-world advantage. I could wear this watch Friday, take it off for the weekend, and find it still running Monday morning. The accuracy was solid, gaining or losing only about 10-15 seconds per day during testing, which is normal for an automatic movement in this price range.

At only 3.5 ounces, this is one of the lightest automatic watches I’ve tested. Combined with the comfortable leather strap, it practically disappears on the wrist. Buyers appreciate the refined look and the exhibition case back, which adds visual interest when you take the watch off.

Open heart vs full skeleton

The open aperture (open heart) design shows part of the balance wheel and escapement through a cutout in the dial. It’s a more subtle approach than the full skeleton Maquina. You still get to see the movement working, but the dial maintains better legibility for telling time at a glance.

The exhibition case back adds another viewing window. Flip the watch over and you can watch the automatic rotor wind the mainspring as you move your wrist. It’s a feature typically reserved for more expensive mechanical watches, and Bulova includes it at this price point.

Who this watch suits best

The Aerojet is ideal for mechanical watch enthusiasts who want something more understated than a full skeleton. It also works well as an entry-level automatic for someone graduating from quartz watches. The 41mm case size (though it wears smaller in practice) suits a wide range of wrist sizes.

Choose this watch if you appreciate mechanical movements but want better dial readability than a full skeleton offers. Skip it if you need higher water resistance, prefer larger cases, or want more complications like a chronograph.

7. Bulova Classic Stainless Steel Diamond Watch 98D130 – Best Diamond-Accent Bulova

The 98D130 is Bulova’s take on the classic diamond dress watch. With 8 diamond accents on the dial and a two-tone stainless steel construction, it’s an elegant option for special occasions. The 981 reviews and 4.7-star average speak to how much buyers love this watch for its eye-catching design.

Two-tone watches split opinion in the watch community, but the 98D130 strikes a good balance. The gold-tone accents aren’t so prominent that the watch looks gaudy, but they’re noticeable enough to add visual interest. The diamond accents are subtle enough to wear with business attire without looking like you’re trying too hard.

I tested this watch for about two weeks and consistently received compliments on it. The combination of two-tone finish, diamond markers, and day-date complication creates a watch that looks more expensive than it is. At 3.8 ounces, it’s surprisingly light for a watch with this much visual presence.

The day-date complication is a nice touch. Most watches in this range only show the date; getting both day and date adds genuine utility. Buyers love the compliments and elegant appearance. The main complaints are about the clasp design (some find it difficult to operate) and the limited availability, with only 4 units left at the time of writing.

What makes the diamond accents work

Bulova positioned the 8 diamonds as hour markers at 6, 9, and 12 positions, with stick markers elsewhere. This is a more restrained approach than fully diamond-covered dials, which can look ostentatious. The result is a watch that adds visual sparkle without crossing into costume jewelry territory.

The two-tone construction pairs silver and gold-tone stainless steel in a way that works with both warm and cool color palettes. This makes the watch more versatile than single-tone dress watches, which can clash with certain outfit combinations.

Best occasions to wear this watch

The 98D130 shines at formal events: weddings, anniversary dinners, holiday parties, and important business meetings. The diamond accents catch light beautifully in evening settings, and the two-tone finish complements formal wear in any color.

Choose this watch if you want an elegant dress watch with subtle luxury cues. It’s also a strong gift option. Skip it if you prefer minimalist designs, need high water resistance, or want a watch for daily rugged use. Given the limited stock, I’d recommend buying sooner rather than later if this one appeals to you.

8. Bulova Marine Star Series A Automatic 98A225 – Best Dive-Style Bulova Watch

The Marine Star Series A Automatic (98A225) is Bulova’s answer for people who want a watch that can actually handle water activities. With 200M water resistance, a two-tone stainless steel case, and a textured blue silicone strap, this watch is built for active lifestyles. The 395 reviews and 4.6-star average confirm that buyers love its versatility.

I tested this watch at the pool, in the shower, and during some weekend kayaking trips. The 200M water resistance is more than enough for recreational swimming and even snorkeling. The silicone strap is comfortable when wet and doesn’t get waterlogged the way leather straps do.

The two-tone stainless steel case gives this watch a premium look that pure steel dive watches often lack. The blue textured silicone strap complements the maritime theme and provides better grip when wet than a metal bracelet would. The open aperture dial shows off the automatic movement, adding visual interest.

The 40-hour power reserve keeps the watch running through weekends if you wear it regularly. One issue some users report is accuracy drift of up to 2 minutes per week, which is on the higher end for automatic movements. If pinpoint accuracy matters to you, a quartz chronograph might be a better fit.

200M water resistance explained

Water resistance ratings can be confusing. 200M (or 20 ATM) means the watch can withstand pressure equivalent to 200 meters of depth, though it’s not actually rated for serious scuba diving. For recreational swimming, snorkeling, and water sports, this watch is more than capable. Just don’t take it for actual deep dives.

The screw-down crown and case back help maintain the water resistance seal. Make sure the crown is fully screwed down before any water exposure. The silicone strap is also a smart choice for water use since it dries quickly and doesn’t degrade like leather would.

Versatility across activities

The Marine Star Series A works for swimming, gym workouts, casual wear, and even business casual settings. The bold styling is sporty enough for the beach but refined enough that it doesn’t look out of place at a casual office. The silicone strap is the key to this versatility since it transitions naturally between wet and dry environments.

Choose this watch if you want a go-anywhere automatic that can handle water activities. It’s also a strong choice for active lifestyle buyers who don’t want to baby their watch. Skip it if you need pinpoint accuracy, prefer metal bracelets, or want a dedicated professional dive watch.

Bulova Watch Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Bulova Watch for You

Bulova makes a wide range of watches, and choosing the right one comes down to understanding a few key factors. Movement type, water resistance, case size, and intended use case all matter more than brand prestige. Here’s how to decide which Bulova fits your wrist and your lifestyle.

Choosing the right movement type

Bulova offers three main movement types across their lineup. Quartz movements are the most accurate and lowest maintenance, but the second hand ticks rather than sweeps. The Precisionist quartz is a special high-frequency movement (262 kHz) that sweeps nearly as smoothly as mechanical movements while keeping quartz accuracy.

Automatic movements are mechanical watches that wind themselves using the motion of your wrist. They offer the classic sweeping second hand and traditional watchmaking charm, but they require regular wear or manual winding and need servicing every 5-7 years. Accuracy is typically +/- 10-15 seconds per day, which is far less precise than quartz.

For most buyers, quartz is the practical choice. If you appreciate mechanical watchmaking or want the traditional watch experience, automatic is worth the extra care. The Precisionist models sit in between, offering near-mechanical smoothness with quartz reliability.

Water resistance ratings explained

Bulova watches typically come in 30M, 50M, 100M, and 200M water resistance ratings. 30M is enough for hand washing and rain but not showering or swimming. 50M adds light swimming. 100M handles swimming, snorkeling, and most water activities. 200M is suitable for recreational diving and serious water sports.

Don’t take any of these ratings literally. They’re based on static pressure tests, not real-world use. Hot water, soap, and sudden temperature changes can all compromise water resistance. When in doubt, take the watch off before water exposure.

Case size and wrist fit

Bulova case sizes range from 37mm dress watches to 45mm+ chronographs. Modern trends favor larger cases, but dress watch proportions still work best in the 38-40mm range. The Marine Star chronographs run large, while the Classic dress watches tend to be more traditionally proportioned.

If you have smaller wrists (under 6.5 inches), stick to cases under 40mm. For average wrists, 40-42mm works well. Larger wrists can handle 43mm+ cases comfortably. Case size matters less than proportions and lug width, which affect how the watch sits on your wrist.

Matching style to use case

Bulova organizes their watches into collections: Classic, Marine Star, Precisionist, Accutron, and various archival reissues. Each collection has its own design language. The Classic collection focuses on dress watches, Marine Star on sport and dive styles, Precisionist on high-tech quartz, and Accutron on futuristic designs.

For everyday wear, dress-to-casual pieces from the Classic collection are versatile. For active lifestyles, Marine Star offers durability and water resistance. For formal occasions, dress watches with leather straps work best. For collectors, archival reissues and limited editions add unique character.

Price and value considerations

Bulova watches typically range from $150 to $600. Under $200, you get solid quartz dress watches and field watches. The $200-$400 range opens up automatic movements, chronographs, and more premium materials. Above $400, you find the Precisionist, special editions, and Accutron models.

The sweet spot for value is the $200-$400 range. Here you get the best combination of movement quality, materials, and design without paying premiums for marketing. Spending more doesn’t necessarily mean a better watch; it often means more complications or special editions.

Care and maintenance tips

Quartz Bulova watches need a battery replacement every 2-3 years. Automatic watches need servicing every 5-7 years, including cleaning and oiling. Regardless of movement type, keep the watch away from magnets, extreme temperatures, and chemicals.

Clean your Bulova regularly with a soft cloth to remove skin oils and dirt. For stainless steel bracelets, occasional washing with mild soap and water keeps them looking new. Leather straps should be kept dry and replaced every 1-2 years depending on wear. Store watches in a watch box or away from direct sunlight when not wearing them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Bulova Watch Should You Buy?

After testing and researching these eight Bulova watches, my top pick for most buyers is the Marine Star Series B 6-Hand Chronograph (96B256). It offers the best combination of features, build quality, water resistance, and visual appeal in the Bulova lineup. The blue dial and chronograph functionality make it versatile enough for most occasions.

For buyers on a tighter budget, the Classic 3-Hand Patterned Dial Quartz (96B149) delivers exceptional value. The patterned dial and comfortable bracelet punch well above the price class, making it a strong entry point into the Bulova lineup.

Automatic watch enthusiasts should look at the Maquina Skeleton (98A224) for full skeleton drama or the Aerojet (98A187) for a more subtle open-heart design. Both include sapphire crystal upgrades and 100M+ water resistance, which is uncommon at their price points.

Whatever your style or budget, there’s a Bulova that fits. The brand has spent 150 years refining their craft, and these eight watches represent the best of what Bulova offers in 2026.